8 Truths To Accept Before You Can Be Happy

Many of my coaching clients first come to me looking for the epiphany: that instant moment when you have it figured out, and all of the emotional pain is wiped away with clarity. Sometimes it happens for them. They return with excited emotions and they say, “I had my aha moment!”

It’s great to have an epiphany, but what you do with that new clarity is what matters most.

Most of our habits are so ingrained in our lives that changing behaviors causes regression. Most epiphanies force us to see situations and ourselves in a new light. The next step is courage. And taking that step to live out your epiphany is when real transformation happens.

In my own life I’ve had some powerful moments. But the ones that have impacted my life the most are the ones I’ve put into practice.

Below are eight epiphanies everyone should have. They have certainly changed my life for the better, and maybe they can help you.

1. You aren’t what people say you are.

What matters most is what you say and feel about yourself. You get to choose; you can let others define you and tell you who you are, or you can show them who you are. Be you. The world needs you as you are.

2. Plan B is often better than Plan A.

The most freeing moment in your life is when you let go of what you think is best for you and allow the universe to show you what you really need. Stop holding on to what is no longer working: that job, that relationship, that dream. If it feels like hard work and is causing you more pain than gain, it is time to release it. Instead, follow your heart.

3. You are not the number on the scale.

At the end of your life the weight struggles, the food wars, or the obsession with new diets and trying to look a certain way will have no relevance. The only thing that matters is what is in your heart. How you make people feel and how you make YOU feel is more important than how you look.

4. The journey is more important than the goal.

Yes reaching goals are important, but the actual process of becoming, growing, learning, and morphing into who we need to become is the real sweet stuff that makes a wonderful life. Enjoy the journey as much as the reward.

5. Being alone doesn’t mean you’ll be lonely.

The fear of being alone strikes the heart and makes many people settle. But when you learn to love your own company, you will see that you are never really lonely.

6. It will never be all done.

The to-do lists, the chores, the things we race around to get done, will never be done. It is called life. Situations, chores, to do lists will always unfold. Instead of focusing on the end result, be in the process and celebrate what you have accomplished.

7. Emotional pain shows up to show us what we need to change.

Sadness, depression, and heartache are gentle reminders to probe deeper into our life. Look at what is not working and be open to living your life in new ways. You will see that one day it will all make sense.

8. You don’t have to find your purpose; it will find you.

The transition period between you were and where you are going can be painful, but on your journey of finding purpose. Recognize that there is purpose in the pain. Each step you take is helping you carve out more of how you really are. Instead of regretting or resisting, try turning inward and embrace the journey into joy.